Forget everything you think you know about exotic animals. We’re here to introduce you to one of nature’s most unusual animals, the axolotl. A member of the salamander family, this unique animal is often referred to as the “walking fish”. Then you will quickly know why.
In this guide, we’ll describe the incredible axolotl, from its amazing genetics to where it’s found in the wild. We’ll also see why their numbers have plummeted and how their disappearance could affect us all. quick connect
What is Axolotl?
How are axolotls different from other types of salamanders?
Where are Axolotls found in the wild?
Why are Axolotls endangered?
Why does Axolotl Population reduce anxiety? What is Axolotl?
Axolotl is a type of salamander with a unique genetic structure. A rare disease called ‘neotini’ retains larval characteristics well into old age, so even as it grows it retains all the characteristics of the tadpole, from feathery gills to long flagpoles like dorsal fins. .
Axolotls are animals that feed on parasites, insects, crustaceans, molluscs and some small fish. For about ten years they have been on the food chain in their habitat, but today perch and tilapia diseases are a threat and have caused them to decline. Often confused with fish, the axolotl is unique to the amphibian family because it spends its entire life in water. In fact, the axolotl is known as a Mexican travel fish due to its appearance and location. If you are looking axolotl for sale, then you can easily buy this from online sites.
Because they are neothenic, their location suggests this: water aloft. It is endemic to axolotls and has a strong distribution of other salamanders. Axolotls, unlike most other types of salamanders, live permanently in water. Some animals are aware of terrestrial industry when they grow up, but they often spend their lives underwater and use their gills to breathe.
Where are Axolotls found in the wild?
As mentioned above, axolotls are found exclusively in the Lake Xochimilco complex near Mexico City, which includes Lake Xochimilco and its tributaries and waterways all over the Spanish capital. Axolotls, a neotenic species, have adapted well to their habitat in the highlands, where the average winter water temperature is around 20°C. axolotls
Axolotls have been an integral part of Mexican culture for centuries. According to local mythology, this animal is the incarnation of the Aztec god disguised as a salamander to avoid sacrifice. Unfortunately, they are also considered a staple in Mexico City and are on the endangered species list due to overfishing.
Why are Axolotls endangered?
In the IUCN Conservation Index, the axolotl is classified as a risk factor, which means that their numbers have dropped so rapidly that they are threatened with extinction in the future. However, this only applies to wildlife, and there are now more axolotls in captivity than in the case.
Many factors have led to the decline of the axolotl in recent years, and in fact it has fallen sharply. A study by Mexican biologist Luis Zambrano found that in 1998 there were 6,000 axolotls per square kilometer in the Xochimilco Lake complex. Today, there are only 35 people.
Let’s look at some of the causes of the decline in axolotl numbers.
Pollution – Mexico City’s rapid growth has had a major impact on water pollution in the Xochimilco system, making some areas unsuitable for surface water.
Overfishing – the axolotl has become an integral part of health in Mexico City, demanding more from local fishermen. Overfishing is currently a major threat to axolotl numbers.
Habitat collapse – Development in Mexico City is rapidly draining and destroying large areas of the Lake Xochimilco complex, including Lake Chalco, one of the main historical sites of the axolotl.
Invasive Species – A small group of invasive bacteria whose origins lie above Xochimilco’s food have been introduced into the axolotl’s habitat. Animals such as perch and tilapia reduce the amount of axolotl, which leads to degeneration.
axolotls
The real threat of axolotl mortality has led to renewed efforts to maintain their numbers in recent years. While several axolotl ‘cages’ are located around the Mexico City Canal to provide habitat for the animals, biologists are working on a project to reintroduce lab-bred humans to Xochimilco as a factor in population growth and promotion of natural reproduction.
Why does Axolotl Population reduce anxiety?
Although many marine and freshwater species are experiencing wildlife problems, scientists are particularly concerned about the loss of axolotls due to their enormous benefits. This exotic salamander is one of the most studied animals in the world, and scientists believe there’s still a lot humans can learn from their genetics.
One of the properties of axolotls that has fascinated biologists for decades is their ability to develop lameness. For example, if an animal loses a foot, it can regenerate branches in a short time. Scientists believe it has beneficial effects in human medicine and in the treatment of certain degenerative diseases.
And while large numbers of axolotls remain in captivity, scientists worry that inbreeding could affect long-term health and genetics, undermining their biological value. There is also concern that the number of breeding animals may negatively impact long-term energy conservation in the event of disease and deficiency.
What is certain is that until significant efforts were made to prevent the counting of axolotls in their habitat, they posed a real life threat to animals. Conservation is therefore crucial for the future of this unique and amazing species.